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In 1891, the American Saddlebred Horse Association was founded in Louisville, Kentucky, the first such organization for an American breed of horse. Originally known as the National Saddle-Horse Breeders Association, its name was changed to American Saddle-Horse Breeders Association in 1899 and to the American Saddlebred Horse Association in 1980. Not only was this a change in name it became an association of members at that time and many new programs were established as a result, including the present network of ASHA recognized charter clubs.
Throughout the U.S. during the 1940’s and thereafter, many groups formed clubs that offered camaraderie and other activities to Saddlebred enthusiasts. Many of these clubs are now recognized as official ASHA Charter Clubs. These organizations must meet certain criteria to become recognized as an ASHA charter club. The rules for charter clubs can be found on the ASHA web site.
American Saddlebred horses are introduced to local communities through the efforts of charter clubs and their members. They sponsor horse shows, futurities, participate in horse fairs, local parades, trail rides and other activities. The fifty plus charter clubs are located throughout the U.S., Canada, and also in England, Sweden and Germany.
In late 2005, the ASHA Board of Directors suggested that regional programs be developed. Using the United States Equestrian regional map, already in existence, for Saddlebreds, a program was designed. Two council members were selected from each region with two serving as international representatives. During the 2006 ASHA Convention a meeting was held with three council members appointed as leaders of the newly formed charter club council. They were Barbara Molland of California, Shelagh Roell of Wisconsin and Susan Vine of Massachusetts. Not only do they represent the western, central and eastern part of the U.S. they bring valuable leadership skills to the program.
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